Gingivectomy
Gingivectomy is a surgical procedure that is frequently used in dentistry and offers an effective solution for many gum problems. This procedure has an important place especially in the treatment of gum diseases, aesthetic interventions and making gums healthy. Gingivectomy, as the name suggests, involves surgical removal of a specific part of the gum. This intervention is usually performed to treat problems such as gum recession, swelling, infection or overgrowth of gums. It is also a preferred method to solve some aesthetic problems or reshape the gum line.
Gum health is one of the cornerstones of overall oral and dental health. Gums, as a part of the tissues that support the teeth, ensure that the teeth remain stable and the balance in the mouth is maintained. However, infections, inflammation or recession of the gums may occur for various reasons. Such situations do not only lead to aesthetic concerns; It can also seriously threaten oral health. Gingivectomy stands out as an effective method in eliminating these problems.
What is Gingivectomy?
Gingivectomy is a word formed by combining the terms “gingiva” (gum) and “ectomy” (surgical removal). This procedure involves removing a certain part of the gum. It is often used to treat overgrown or inflamed gums due to gum disease. It may also be preferred for aesthetic reasons to correct the gums and make the teeth look smoother.
Gum diseases (periodontal diseases) can cause the gums to become inflamed, receding, and cause pockets to form around the teeth. These pockets are areas where bacteria can settle and if left untreated, can cause serious health problems. Gingivectomy is performed to eliminate these pockets and improve gum health.
Why is Gingivectomy Done?
Gingivectomy is a common surgical procedure in dentistry performed for both therapeutic and aesthetic purposes. This procedure is preferred to improve the health of the gums and remove diseased tissues, as well as to address aesthetic concerns. The main reasons for performing gingivectomy are:
- Treatment of Gum Diseases: Gum diseases include problems such as gingivitis and gum recession. Gingivitis causes inflammation and swelling of the gum tissue, while gum recession can lead to exposure of the roots of the teeth. These conditions can weaken the supporting tissue of the teeth, causing serious tooth loss. Gingivectomy aims to solve these problems by surgically removing diseased gum tissue. Inflamed tissues are cleaned and gum tissue is made healthy, thus stopping the progression of diseases and restoring gum health.
- Removing Gum Enlargement: Some diseases, medications or genetic factors can cause excessive gum growth. This condition is called hyperplasia and usually causes a large portion of the teeth to be covered by the gums. Gum overgrowth is not only aesthetically disturbing, but also makes oral hygiene difficult. Excess gum tissue covering the teeth can interfere with brushing and flossing, which can lead to plaque and tartar buildup. Thanks to gingivectomy, overgrown gums are cut, teeth are made more visible and oral hygiene becomes easier.
- Reducing Gum Pocket Depth: Gum diseases can cause gums to separate from the tooth surface and create deep gum pockets. These pockets create ideal environments for bacteria and food debris to accumulate. Over time, the deepening of these pockets leads to the progression of periodontal diseases and increases the risk of tooth loss. These pockets are often difficult to clean due to their depth. With the gingivectomy procedure, the size of these pockets is reduced and the deep pocket problem is eliminated, and the gums firmly adhere to the tooth surface again. This makes it easier for the patient to maintain dental hygiene and prevent periodontal diseases.
- Aesthetic Corrections: For some people, excessive or irregular gum appearance may pose an aesthetic problem. This condition, called “gummy smile”, means that the gums are excessively visible when smiling and can be disturbing for some patients. Gingivectomy is also an effective method in solving such aesthetic problems. A more aesthetic smile can be achieved by reshaping the gum line and removing excess gum.
How To?
It is performed by a specialist dentist or periodontologist. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and most patients do not experience pain or discomfort. We can summarize the gingivectomy process as follows:
- Examination and Planning: The dentist evaluates the condition of the gums and determines in which areas the surgical intervention will be performed. It is decided which parts of the gums need to be removed.
- Anesthesia Application: Before the procedure, local anesthesia is applied to the gum. In this way, no pain is felt during the procedure.
- Gum Removal: Gums are cut in designated areas with surgical instruments or laser. Laser procedures allow for less bleeding and faster healing.
- Stitching and Bandaging: After the gum tissue is removed, stitches may be applied or a special bandage may be applied to allow the area to heal. This speeds up the healing process and reduces the risk of infection.
Healing Process
The healing process after gingivectomy may vary from person to person. But in general, full recovery occurs within a few days to a week. In order to speed up the healing process and have a comfortable time, it is necessary to pay attention to the following suggestions:
- Reduce Pain: You may feel mild pain or discomfort in the gums for the first few days. Your dentist may recommend painkillers.
- Consume Soft Foods: Hard or irritating foods should be avoided in the first days. Consuming soft and cold foods protects the gums.
- Pay Attention to Your Oral Hygiene: You should be careful when brushing your teeth and be careful not to damage the gum area. Your dentist may also recommend using an antiseptic mouthwash.
Who Can Have Gingivectomy?
Gingivectomy may be suitable for anyone who cares about gum health. However, before the procedure, a detailed examination and planning should be made with your dentist. For people who need gingivectomy due to gum disease, gum overgrowth, or aesthetic concerns, this procedure can provide great benefits.
